Quebec City: Double Decker Express Tour

Get an Elevated View of Quebec City

The Quebec City: Double Decker Express Tour offers a convenient way to see the city’s most famous landmarks in about 1 hour. Priced at $27.86 per person, this tour is a budget-friendly option that appeals to first-time visitors eager to get their bearings and plan future explorations. The tour departs from 12 Rue Sainte-Anne, right in the heart of Old Quebec, making it easy to access via public transportation. With a mobile ticket, it provides a seamless check-in process, and the tour can accommodate up to 51 travelers at a time.

The experience features a double-decker bus, with the option to sit on the top deck for panoramic views that can’t be matched from street level. The on-board commentary enhances your understanding of Quebec City’s history and culture, making this a well-rounded introduction to the city’s landmarks. While some reviews mention that the commentary is canned and delivered via earphones, most appreciate the ease of touring without walking or driving around busy streets.

Highlights of the Quebec City Double Decker Tour

• Ideal for first-time visitors seeking a quick overview.
• Helps pinpoint specific sites to revisit in detail later.
• Learn about Quebec City’s history and culture through informative narration.
• Enjoy scenic views from the open-top upper deck, offering sights inaccessible from the ground.
• Key sights include Old Quebec, the Château Frontenac, Plains of Abraham, Grande-Allée Street, and the Parliament Building.

This tour covers major locations in both Lower and Upper Town, giving a comprehensive look at Quebec City’s diverse neighborhoods and architectural styles. The drive-by stops, like the Tourny Fountain and la Citadelle, add visual interest as the guide shares background details.

From the Old Town to the Castle District

The tour begins near Château Frontenac, a grand hotel that dominates the city skyline and serves as a perfect starting point. From there, it heads through Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with cobbled streets and historic buildings. The bus then takes you to the Plains of Abraham, where you can admire expansive green spaces and towers visible from the bus.

The route includes a drive along Grande-Allée Street, renowned for its lively atmosphere and historic significance. As the bus moves through Lower Town, it passes landmarks like the Place d’Youville, and the journey concludes back near the starting point, completing a full loop of Quebec City’s highlights.

The Architectural and Natural Sights

One of the tour’s strengths lies in showcasing impressive architecture, including beautiful buildings that stand out along the route. Travelers get views of Bassin Louise, which offers scenic vistas of the city’s waterfront, as well as gardens that add bursts of color and tranquility during the drive.

While the tour focuses heavily on visual appreciation, the commentary provides context about the city’s history and architecture. The Château Frontenac and Parliament Building are highlights, offering a glimpse into Quebec’s political and hospitality grandeur. The drive past la Citadelle and Manège Militaire — recently rebuilt after a fire — adds to the understanding of Quebec’s military history.

The Logistics: Meeting Point and Group Size

The tour starts conveniently at 12 Rue Sainte-Anne, a central location in Old Quebec. The meet-and-greet process is straightforward, and the tour ends at the same spot, making it easy for visitors to plan additional activities afterward. The group size is capped at 51 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience without overcrowding. The bus is easily accessible, and the tour is suitable for most travelers, including those with mobility considerations.

Accessibility and Practical Tips

This tour is suitable for most travelers, and service animals are allowed. It’s recommended to arrive 20 to 30 minutes early to settle in and ensure a timely start. The earphone system allows multilingual commentary, although some reviews suggest that instructions on how to use the headsets could be clearer.

The tour is conducted in good weather — as it is dependent on favorable conditions — and rain or poor weather could result in cancellations or rescheduling. Since the tour primarily involves sitting and sightseeing, it suits those who prefer a relaxed overview rather than extensive walking.

The Guide’s Role: Knowledgeable but Varied Delivery

Most reviews praise the guides for their friendliness and knowledge, with Jacques Lemieux specifically highlighted for his personable and energetic narration. He offers tons of info, making the experience engaging and educational. Some feedback notes that the commentary is canned and delivered via earphones, which can be less lively than a live guide, but the overall explanation remains informative.

The driver is also noted for being excellent, with some reviews appreciating the flexibility shown when dealing with traffic delays. The commentary switches between French and English, which some find helpful, though a few mention that the audio quality or volume could be improved for clarity.

Timing, Pacing, and Suggested Improvements

Since the tour duration is approximately one hour, it provides a quick snapshot of Quebec City’s highlights. Slight delays due to traffic may extend the route, as reported in some reviews, though most find the pace comfortable. Travelers are encouraged to book this in the morning to avoid rush hour traffic, which some reviewers say can make the experience less relaxing.

It’s advisable to arrive early and be prepared for the possibility of delays, especially during busy periods. The hot day in summer illustrates the benefit of sitting on the top deck, as it provides a break from the heat while enjoying the scenery.

Value and Overall Experience

At $27.86, this double-decker bus tour offers a cost-effective way to get an overview of Quebec City in a short amount of time. The combination of scenic views, informative narration, and easy access makes it well-suited for visitors who want to maximize sightseeing without extensive walking.

While some reviews mention that the audio system could be improved and that the commentary might feel repetitive or canned, most agree that the viewing experience and stops like Château Frontenac and the Plains of Abraham make this trip worthwhile. The tour strikes a good balance between entertainment and education, making it especially ideal for first-time visitors.

Quebec City: Double Decker Express Tour – Final Thoughts

This tour provides a quick, enjoyable overview of Quebec City’s key sights at an accessible price point. Its open-top design ensures stunning views from above, while the narration introduces visitors to the city’s history and architecture. The meeting point is central, and the group size allows for a comfortable experience.

While it may not satisfy those seeking an in-depth exploration or a live guide, it excels as a first step into Quebec City’s charm. The scenic drive combined with informative commentary makes it a good choice for families, first-time visitors, or anyone looking for a relaxed introduction to this historic destination.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour’s relaxed pace and short duration make it suitable for most children, especially since it involves sitting and sightseeing.

Can I join this tour if I have mobility issues?
The tour is generally accessible, but travelers with specific mobility needs should verify accessibility details directly with the provider, as the bus involves some steps at the start.

What languages are available for the commentary?
Commentary switches between French and English, with most reviews noting that the audio system works well, although instructions on headsets could be clearer.

Does the tour run in bad weather?
This experience requires good weather. In case of poor weather conditions, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled, and a full refund is available if that occurs.

How long does the tour last?
The approximate duration is 1 hour, making it a quick, efficient way to see many highlights.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothing, especially on hot days, and earphones for the commentary, which is provided via headset. Arriving early helps ensure a smooth start.